Investing Investing Basics

10 Ways to Start Investing With Just $1,000 in 2024

You can start investing even if it’s just a smaller amount.

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Updated Dec. 17, 2024
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Investing doesn't always require a substantial amount of capital. With as little as $1,000, you can kickstart your investment journey and work toward your financial goals.

Whether you're looking to save for a specific goal, or simply grow your money, there are various avenues for individuals with a modest budget.

Here are 10 ways to start investing with just $1,000.

Steal this billionaire wealth-building technique

The ultra-rich have also been investing in art from big names like Picasso and Bansky for centuries. And it's for a good reason: Contemporary art prices have outpaced the S&P 500 by 136% over the last 27 years.

A new company called Masterworks is now allowing everyday investors to get in on this type of previously-exclusive investment. You can buy a small slice of $1-$30 million paintings from iconic artists, all without needing any art expertise.

If you have at least $10k to invest and are ready to explore diversifying beyond stocks and bonds,see what Masterworks has on offer. (Hurry, they often sell out!)

Build an emergency fund using a high-yield savings account

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Before delving into traditional investment avenues, prioritize building a financial safety net. Consider stashing a portion of your $1,000 in a top high-yield savings account to create an emergency fund.

High-yield savings accounts offer better interest rates than traditional savings accounts, allowing your emergency fund to grow steadily over time. This foundational step ensures that you have a financial cushion in place before venturing into more volatile investment options.

Want to learn how to build wealth like the 1%? Sign up for Worthy to get ideas and advice delivered to your inbox.

Open a certificate of deposit (CD)

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A certificate of deposit (CD) is a low-risk investment option suitable for those who prefer a fixed and predictable return. You can open a CD and lock in your funds for a specified period, ranging from a few months to several years.

CDs typically offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts, making them an attractive choice for conservative investors. While your money is tied up for the agreed-upon duration, CDs provide a secure avenue for growing your initial investment.

Enroll in your company’s 401(k)

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If your employer offers a 401(k) plan, seize the opportunity to enroll and start investing for your retirement. Many companies provide matching contributions, supercharging your investment power.

Even with a small initial investment, your 401(k) contributions can benefit from compounding over the long term and benefit your long-term financial security.

Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt

Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.

National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1

How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.

Try it

Open an individual retirement account (IRA)

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Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are versatile investment tools that provide tax advantages for retirement savings. With $1,000, you can open an IRA and choose between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA, each offering distinct tax benefits.

IRAs allow you to invest in a variety of assets, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, providing flexibility to align your investments with your financial objectives.

Open a traditional brokerage account

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For investors seeking flexibility and control over their investment decisions, a traditional brokerage account offers a direct route to the stock market.

You can open a brokerage account and start buying individual stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other investments. This hands-on approach allows you to customize your investment portfolio according to your preferences.

While the stock market carries inherent risks, it also presents growth opportunities, making a brokerage account an accessible entry point for aspiring investors.

Pay down high-interest debt

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Before fully immersing yourself in investment ventures, consider addressing high-interest debt. Redirecting a portion of your $1,000 toward paying down outstanding debts, especially those with high interest rates, can reduce interest payments over time.

Crushing your debts improves your financial health and sets the stage for more robust and sustainable investment strategies. Prioritize debts with the highest interest rates to optimize their impact on your overall financial well-being.

Invest in low-cost index funds

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Index funds provide an affordable and diversified approach to investing in the stock market. You can allocate your funds to low-cost index funds that track specific market indices, such as the S&P 500.

These funds offer exposure to a broad range of stocks, spreading risk and minimizing the impact of individual stock fluctuations. Index funds are particularly suitable for investors looking for long-term steady growth.

Explore exchange-traded funds (ETFs)

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ETFs share similarities with index funds but trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks. ETFs offer a diversified portfolio of assets, making them an attractive option for investors looking for broad market exposure.

Choose ETFs aligned with your investment objectives, whether focused on specific sectors, industries, or market themes.

Invest in individual stocks

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With a focused approach, $1,000 can be strategically invested in individual stocks of companies you believe in. Conduct thorough research, analyze financial performance, and consider long-term growth potential when selecting stocks.

Diversify your stock portfolio across different industries to mitigate risk. While investing in individual stocks requires careful consideration and monitoring, it provides hands-on experience and the potential for significant returns.

Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account

Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2

With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!

This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.

Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.

Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today

Educate yourself and seek professional guidance

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Knowledge is a powerful asset in the world of investing. Allocate a portion of your investment in financial education resources, books, and courses.

Understanding investment principles, market dynamics, and risk management enhances your decision-making capabilities and helps you move beyond living paycheck to paycheck.

Also, consider seeking advice from financial professionals or hiring a certified financial planner to provide personalized guidance.

Bottom line

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As you embark on your investment journey, remember that each financial decision contributes to your overall financial well-being.

The key is to align your investment strategies with your specific goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. By taking deliberate steps and staying informed, you can leverage even a modest sum of $1,000 to get ahead financially.

What financial goals do you aspire to achieve with your $1,000 investment? Consider the various investment options presented and envision how each strategy aligns with your aspirations and goals.

Masterworks Benefits

  • Invest in art like a millionaire for a relatively low cost
  • Art investments have outperformed the S&P 500 by over 131% for 26 years
  • Purchase shares of artwork by top artists
  • Hedge against inflation and diversify your portfolio